levothyroxine - oral, Levothroid, Levoxyl, Synthroid (cont.)

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily on an empty stomach, 30 minutes to 1 hour before breakfast. Take this medication with a full glass of water unless your doctor directs you otherwise.If you are taking the capsule form of this medication, swallow it whole. Do not split, crush, or chew. People who cannot swallow the capsule whole (such as infants or small children) should use the tablet form of the medication.For infants or children who cannot swallow whole tablets, crush the tablet and mix in 1 to 2 teaspoons (5 to 10 milliliters) of water, and give using a spoon or dropper immediately. Do not prepare a supply in advance or mix the tablet in soy infant formula. Consult your pharmacist for more information.Dosage is based on your age, weight, medical condition, laboratory test results, and response to treatment.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.Do not stop taking this medication without first consulting with your doctor. Thyroid replacement treatment is usually taken for life.There are different brands of levothyroxine available. Do not change brands without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist.Certain medications (cholestyramine, colestipol, colesevelam, antacids, sucralfate, simethicone, iron, sodium polystyrene sulfonate, calcium carbonate, orlistat) can decrease the amount of thyroid hormone that is absorbed by your body. If you are taking any of these drugs, separate them from this medication by at least 4 hours.Symptoms of low thyroid hormone levels include tiredness, muscle aches, constipation, dry skin, weight gain, slow heartbeat, or sensitivity to cold. Tell your doctor if your condition worsens or persists after several weeks of taking this medication.